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Although its population is predicted to begin declining, Tokyo is still projected to hold the top spot as the most populated city on earth until 2030. (Shutterstock/File)

In a rapidly advancing world in which people now have access to life-prolonging medicines and mass produced food, modern cities have become the centers for these scientific and technological advancements. This has lead to skyrocketing population growth in urban centers.

But how big have cities grown? Here are the 10 most populated cities in the world, as reported by Time.

10. New York-Newark, United States

The city of New York, also known as the "Big Apple" and "The City That Never Sleeps," and neighboring Newark are home to approximately 18,604,000 people.

9. Cairo, Egypt

Romanticized in movies and literature, Cairo is a beautiful place to visit for the holidays, but may not be the best place for those who are claustrophobic. Approximately 19,128,000 people call this city home. Its high population can also be attributed to its many state-of-the-art universities and medical centers.

8. Osaka, Japan

With its charming corner shops and rich cultural scene, Osaka has attracted many foreigners to come and live in the beautiful city. This has led Osaka to become one of the most populated cities on earth with a population of roughly 20,337,000. The city, however, has also been experiencing a low birth rate of late, which is predicted to cause a decline in its population in the coming years.

A financial hub for Latin America, a cultural center that celebrates the modern and the ancient, and a city that was built on top of the capital city of the Aztec empire, Tenochtitlán , Mexico City is certainly an extraordinary city with a population of around 21,157,000 people.

6. Beijing, China

As over 1.3 billion people live inside China's borders, it is not shocking that its capital is one of the most crowded cities on earth. With a population of about 21,240,000 people, there's no shortage of excitement in this city.

5. São Paulo, Brazil

As the most populated city below the equator with an approximate population of 21,297,000, São Paulo houses an incredible array of institutions from finance to culture.

Attracting people from nearby cities because of its cosmopolitan charm and job opportunities, Mumbai now has a population of around 21,357,000 people. And with its total wealth reaching around US$280 billion, it certainly offers outstanding opportunities.

3. Shanghai, China

As China’s most populated city, Shanghai is certainly not for those tired of the hustle-and-bustle of city life. With a population reaching 24,484,000 people, the city has become a financial center and home to the world’s busiest port.

2. Delhi, India

With a population projected to reach 36 million by 2030, it may be an under-statement to say that Delhi is a very crowded city. Today, it is home to approximately 26,454,000 individuals.

1. Tokyo, Japan

Although its population is predicted to begin declining, Tokyo is still projected to hold the top spot as the most populated city on earth until 2030. Modern, stylish and full of culture, Tokyo is one of the most captivating cities to live but also the most tightly packed. And, in a city of approximately 38,140,000 people, you are sure to have a hard time pushing through the crowds to get to your destination. (ezr/kes)